City facilities open to public as extreme heat expected in Brazos Valley

Extreme heat index values are expected to reach dangerous levels across the Brazos Valley this week. In response, the City of College Station has made its air-conditioned municipal facilities available to the public during normal business hours.

The city encourages residents whose home air conditioning is struggling or who need a temporary break from the outdoors to use these public spaces to cool down and hydrate.

Available Locations and Hours

Residents can access the following facilities:

• Ringer Library: 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. Open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• City Hall: 1101 Texas Ave. S. Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Halter Nature Center: 3555 Rock Prairie Road W. Open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Lincoln Recreation Center: 1000 Eleanor St. Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Meyer Senior and Community Center: 2275 Dartmouth St. Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Southwood Community Center: 1520 Rock Prairie Road. Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Heat Safety Guidelines

The city advises residents to take specific precautions during periods of extreme weather. Individuals should drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if they do not feel thirsty, and avoid sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic beverages. Residents are also urged to frequently check on elderly neighbors, family members, and pets to ensure they have adequate cooling.

Public health officials recommend monitoring for signs of heat-related illness. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, and nausea. Heat stroke is an emergency characterized by high body temperature, confusion, a rapid pulse, and a lack of sweating. If heat stroke is suspected, call 911 immediately.